Northumbria Police have launched an investigation into a suspected sexual assault in Wallsend after a man reportedly attacked a woman in the St Peter's Road area. Officers received the report of an 'attempted rape' at around 8.45pm on Tuesday evening.
The man, who was not known to the woman, threatened her before sexually assaulting her. He fled the scene before police arrived, heading in the direction of Burn Bridge.
Victim supported by specialist officers
An investigation was launched immediately, with the woman, who is in her 30s, being supported by specially-trained officers. Enquiries are at an early stage, and officers are asking anyone who witnessed the incident, has information, or matches the following description to get in touch.
The man is described as being of medium build, approximately 5ft 5inches tall, and in his 30s. He was wearing a black hat, black pants, black gloves and a black top, and is reported to have been holding a glass bottle.
Police appeal for public help
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Deavin, of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department, said: "Firstly, my thoughts are with the victim-survivor who we will continue to offer all the specialist we can during this time."
He added: "We are also aware of some social media coverage regarding this incident, and we would like to take this opportunity to remind people that all victim-survivors of sexual offences have the right to anonymity and should not be identified."
"We were on scene in minutes of the report being received, and we have been conducting extensive enquiries to identify a suspect, but we’re now asking for the public’s help with that."
Search teams at the scene
Photographs from the scene show a large police presence in the area, including specialist search teams, police search dogs, and forensics officers. The main area being searched is a footpath just off St Peter's Road, which is next to Burnside College.
Detective Chief Inspector Deavin said: "As part of our investigation, officers will remain in the area today conducting door-to-door and further enquiries. We will also be conducting extra patrols in the area as the safety of the public is our utmost priority, and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak to an officer on duty."
He added: "While incidents of this nature are extremely rare in our area, we recognise the concern they may cause in our communities. We are committed to bringing perpetrators of these types of crimes to justice."
Those who have information should send police a direct message on social media, or use the live chat function on the website. If unable to contact the force in those ways, call 101 and quote crime reference number 26000482347.
